Dissecting and admiring Vogue's fashion sense

On a recent day off, I had plans to do only three things.

The one I looked forward to the most? Devouring the new September issue of Vogue magazine.

Widely considered the industry's most important issue, the magazine's September issue already has been the subject of a fascinating documentary that was a behind-the-scenes look at putting together the 2008 edition. If you haven't seen "The September Issue," you really should.

Because of the magazine's significance, landing the cover of the September issue is highly coveted, and this year Halle Berry was chosen. And here's a bit of trivia. Berry is only the second African-American to be featured on Vogue's biggest issue. Can you name the first? Here's a hint ... it was in 1989.

The major story in the issue (besides the fall fashion) is the event "Fashion's Night Out" which takes place Sept. 10 in New York. It's a huge celebration of fashion and shopping with designers, models, celebrities and Vogue editors all participating.

Its inaugural run last year was a reaction against the downturn in the economy and was so successful that they're bringing it back. This time, other cities -- Los Angeles, Dallas, Chicago and Atlanta -- are hosting their own events.

Fun activities are planned, such as Lanvin bingo, table tennis with the guys from Proenza Schouler, karaoke judged by the Olsen twins and a flea market hosted by Opening Ceremony at the Ace Hotel.

If you love fashion and want a chance to meet your favorite designers or to score some limited-edition items, this is definitely a not-to-be-missed event.

Of course, there's a huge fashion spread in the magazine styled by Grace Coddington and shot by Steven Meisel to celebrate the event. Called "On the Town," it features an exciting mash-up of musicians, actors, models, designers -- even a chef and the goalie for the New York Rangers in his hockey pads.

The issue is always a great forecast of what people will be wearing this fall.

A huge trend is the '50s silhouette with fitted knit sweaters, belted shirtdresses and full skirts. It's a very grown up look with a different idea of what can be sexy. Think Grace Kelly or Betty Draper in "Mad Men."

Also this fall, look for texture such as tweed in nubby knits, plaid, plush faux fur trim and the unexpected mix of leather and lace.

Oh, and if you guessed Naomi Campbell as being the first African-American to grace the cover of Vogue's September issue, you'd be right.